We North Americans seem to be set on doing our own thing. Religion becomes all about personal salvation and the focus is on me and Jesus. Heaven and Hell are the final destinations available based on our individual choices and we are entirely responsible for the one in which we land. Church becomes a choice based on getting my needs met.
For a pastor, this is a nightmare because we become responsible for making (and keeping) everybody happy. Church becomes a place where our church family is pleased with everything and folks come tofeel good. The goal seems to be a Hallmark moment rather than an encounter with the Holy. Recently I heard William Willimon say that a person can make a difference but transformation takes a community. How exciting for church to move past individual experience to become a place of community transformation! A place where our personal tastes and inclinations aren’t the most important things. A place where generosity and hospitality are lived and justice becomes more important that personal political leanings. A place where the risky, disruptive things Jesus said can be heard, processed, and lived out! First Christian Church of Transformed and Transforming Community – I’m in! Come on and let’s make it happen!
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Rev. Marcia HageeShe graduated from Duke University and the University of Missouri-Columbia studying Psychology and Religion. She earned her M. Div at Phillips Theological Seminary and was ordained by the Oklahoma Region of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Archives
June 2018
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